Grim outlook for man hit in Napier bar fight

A 29-year-old man hit from behind during a fight in Napier this month may not survive, and the man charged with injuring him is expected to go on trial.

Christopher Siuloa, 20, a labourer from the Napier suburb of Maraenui, was denied bail yesterday by Judge Geoff Rea. He is due to reappear in Napier District Court on September 15 charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Police say the victim was king-hit from behind during a fight outside Sideline Bar in Onekawa on August 2, Hawke's Bay Today reported. He remains on life support in Wellington Hospital, and his outlook is bleak, hospital staff said.

Siuloa's lawyer, Philip Jensen, said the victim, who had been denied service at the bar earlier, began antagonising Siuloa after a fight involving the pair and a few others was broken up.

Shortly after Siuloa hit the man, who saw the punch coming, and his injuries were from his head "bouncing" on the ground.

- NZPA